Report: Willis has fractured hand

The 49ers feared that linebacker Patrick Willis suffered a “slight fracture” of his right hand when he injured it during Wednesday’s practice. X-rays taken on Thursday reportedly proved them correct.

Chris Mortensen of ESPN reports that those X-rays confirmed the 49ers’ suspicions about the preliminary diagnosis. Per Mortensen, the team will “proceed with caution” when it comes to Willis’ recovery and eventual return to the field. The linebacker is expected to be back in time to play in the season opener.

Willis has suffered breaks in his right hand two other times in his NFL career, neither of which interfered with his run of six Pro Bowl selections in six seasons. He also played part of a season in college with a cast on his hand, so he’s experienced with playing that way should it be necessary to protect himself.

The 49ers were also without linebacker NaVorro Bowman for part of Wednesday’s practice after he suffered a groin strain earlier this week.

It’s starting to look like the two preseason championship teams, the Seahags and the Niners, are falling apart.
I guess it just goes to show how stupid it is to preordain champions.
I never like to see anyone get injured but the fact that the two most insufferable coaches in the league are sweating right now makes me smile.

@aaroncurryisbust….. really dude? Grow up a little. I’ve read those articles about Harvin and don’t recall a lot of people being excited that he was hurt. People called him injury prone. That’s it. How’s that moral highground feel? I guess you really wouldn’t know. Keep ccelebrating another human being getting hurt dummy.

Not an issue. He’s one tough SOB. His whole hand would have to hanging by just the tendons before he’d even think about missing a game especially week 2 and even then he’d probably slap some tape on it and go!

Really? Are you new to football? How would you possibly not know who Willis is? I understand they’re on the same team, but confusing Willis with Brooks would be like confusing Ray Lewis with Paul Kruger or Jared Allen with Everson Griffen.